Government originated in the attempt to find a form of association that defends and protects the person and property of each with the common force of all.

I have never believed that man's freedom consisted in doing what he wants, but rather in never doing what he does not want to do.

Liberty may be gained, but can never be recovered.

The most absolute authority is that which penetrates into a man's innermost being and concerns itself no less with his will than with his actions.

The training of children is a profession, where we must know how to waste time in order to save it.

The visible order of the universe proclaims a supreme intelligence.

It is easier to conquer than to administer. With enough leverage, a finger could overturn the world; but to support the world, one must have the shoulders of Hercules.